From research to policy: reflections on the Open Innovation Team placement
Sofie Voss, behavioural science PhD researcher in Surrey Hospitality and Tourism Management spent three months on a policy placement with the Open Innovation Team last year. Here, she shares her experience and advice for anyone applying for the 2026-27 Placement Scheme.
During my PhD, I have often thought about how academic research can make its way into real decisions. The Open Innovation Team (OIT) placement gave me the chance to see that process up close. It offered a practical introduction to how evidence is sourced, interpreted, and used in government.
What the placement involved
The placement was fast-paced and highly collaborative. I worked alongside colleagues who were skilled at moving from a policy question to an evidence-informed recommendation in no time. A key part of your work at the OIT will be translating complex information into clear outputs that decision-makers can use.
I also gained insight into the rhythms of policy work: how priorities are set, how constraints shape what is feasible, and how teams coordinate across departments. Seeing this helped me understand why “good evidence” is necessary but not sufficient; usefulness depends on timing, clarity, and fit with the policy problem. Useful is better than perfect!
Advice for PhD researchers considering applying
If you are a PGR curious about policy, I strongly recommend considering the placement. A few practical reflections may help:
- You do not need to be a policy expert. Curiosity and willingness to learn matter more than prior government experience.
- Be ready to adapt your writing style. Policy audiences often need concise, decision-relevant summaries, not 10K words on any given topic!
- Protect time for the placement. The time in the OIT will fly by, so it helps to plan in advance with your supervisor and set realistic expectations for what you can pause in your PhD during the placement period.
- Ask questions early. The learning curve is part of the experience, but clarifying the purpose of your placement up front will improve your experience and the insights you take away!
If you are interested in gaining a realistic view of the policymaking process, this placement is a valuable and genuinely enjoyable challenge!
The Open Innovation Team is a cross-government unit that works on a wide range of policies, including health, justice, education, sustainability, energy, international development, and artificial intelligence. Their PhD placement scheme brings PhD students into the heart of government, working with civil service teams on real policy challenges during a three month placement.
The scheme is now open for applications for the 2026-27 cohort - read more information and apply here by 12pm on Friday 13th February.
